The Bottom Line
I always find it very hard to review gospel music, because I occasionally feel as though by
standing judgement on non-secular music, I'm also judging the subject. So my approach to
gospel records tends to be a little bit of walking on eggshells. But with this collection, that's not
necessary. June Carter Cash is a woman of faith who embraces these songs with a sweet honesty
that's gentle, reverent, and wonderful.
Pros
- "The Far Side Banks of Jordan"
- "Diamonds in the Rough"
- "Will The Circle Be Unbroken"
Cons
- None.
Description
- Ten tracks, including many of A.P. Carter's most well-known hymns.
- Includes duet with Johnny Cash, "The Far Side Banks of Jordan."
- Compiled and produced by John Carter Cash.
Guide Review - June Carter Cash - Church in the Wildwood
Gospel music is part and parcel of country music. There was a time when gospel songs were
simply on the charts with the rest of them, played daily rather than on Sundays only. June's
gentle voice recalls that time, when country music singers could frankly move from songs about
cheatin' and drinkin' to songs about the love of Jesus and the rewards of heaven without ever
dropping a note.
June's later recordings leaned heavily on her faith, drawing almost solely from the vast writings of A.P. Carter, including the title track, "Church in the Wildwood," "Keep on the Sunny Side," "Meeting in the Air," "Anchored in Love," "Hold Fast to the Right," and classic "Will The Circle Be Unbroken," as well as her own self-penned hymns, such as "Wings of Angels," and "Kneeling Drunkard's Plea" (written with Mother Maybelle and her sisters).
June's faith and love for her subject come across in her sweet vocals. She embraces those emotions without reserve, and that love makes the music even more beautiful than they are already. June may not have sung for us very often, but what she did leave with us is quality.
